Why not just admit they like to do most of the talking and get in the last word? Just seems like things would be a lot easier.
True, have you ever notice women don't want guys to talk about themselves, but want a good listener? To listen to them talking about themselves. So as you said, "just nod your head", I say give a couple smiles, and say "uh huh", "Yeah", "and so", if women can fake orgasms, men can fake being interested.